"The Beatles definitely influenced me. I grew up with ladies like Aaliyah, Destiny's Child, Christina Aguilera, and Britney Spears, and they were all very inspiring to me."

What was it like to collaborate with B.o.B.?

"B.o.B. was the last one to put something down on my album, and he really holds the vibe on 'Oh My.' I was so excited to work with him."

Do you have a dream artist collaboration?

"There's a new wave with Gotye, fun., and Janelle Monae—I love their music. They're really reaching new bounds and I hope to be a part of that."

Photo courtesy of Harper Smith

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What kind of platform did American Idol give you as an artist?

"It was the ultimate platform, but it's about what you make of it. Coming in third place gave me the chance to write my own record. It gave me a jump start and a huge fan base."

Can you describe the music on your new album?

"It's very retro and modern at the same time. I grew up listening to soul music. It's hard to specify one genre because I wanted to make a marriage of all the things that I love and have inspired me, and that's what I did. It's definitely sultry, rocky, and funky at the same time."

Photo courtesy of Harper Smith

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You have such great hair! What are your beauty tips?

"I use some mousse to comb it down, but when I don't want to comb it down, I brush it out and it's like a lion's mane. I've learned to love my lion's mane and tame it as much as I can."

Photo courtesy of Meeno

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Can you describe your personal style?

"I really adore the fifties, and my album fits well with the classic pin-up look. I enjoy the sixties and seventies, too—the psychedelic patterns, colors, and bell-bottoms. I've been trying to do a combination of both and channel that groovy period."

Where do you like to shop?

"I love Topshop and places like Urban Outfitters, Free People, and American Apparel."

Photo courtesy of Nick Spanos

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You're going to be performing at Lollapalooza this summer. How does that feel?

"I'm ecstatic about being the first Idol that gets to play. I'm in the company of legends like Black Sabbath, and now The Black Keys and The Shins. It's a big honor and a treat—plus it's in my hometown!"

Do you have any tips for people who are thinking about auditioning for a singing competition show?

"Be yourself as much as possible. You have to be able to bring out the authenticity and be the real you, or else you won't get as far. If you get far not being you, what is that going to say about your character? Your career may not have the longevity that you hope for."

Photo courtesy of Meeno

Music

Singer Haley Reinhart on Recording her Debut Album, Listen Up!

The 21-year-old American Idol Season 10 finalist reveals that 1950s soul music influences her sultry music and retro personal style.